September 11th 2023.
Novak Djokovic has made it clear that he is not focused on suggestions of a passing of the torch in men's tennis after his victory at the US Open. He beat Daniil Medvedev in the final, with Carlos Alcaraz having been eliminated in the semi-finals.
The Serbian is set to take the world No.1 spot from Alcaraz following his loss to the 20-year-old in the Wimbledon final. Speaking after his 24th Grand Slam title win, Djokovic said: "People like to talk, but I focus on what I need to do to be in the optimal state. Alcaraz is a refreshment for tennis, it’s great that we have a rivalry."
Djokovic had to dig deep to win the US Open, admitting the second set was the key. He said: "I don’t think I’ve played a longer set in my life. He probably deserved that set more, but I managed to turn things around in the tie-break. I was very relieved to win the second set, Medvedev is one of the best in making you hit the extra ball. I don’t recall being so tired after rallies as in second set."
The 36-year-old understands the importance of adapting and evolving in the sport. He added: "There is always something I am trying to add and implement things that work for you. One of the biggest lessons is that you need to reinvent yourself constantly."
Finally, Djokovic was emotional after the match, expressing his gratitude to his daughter who was in the stands. He said: "I felt relief after match point. Out of respect, I wanted to come to the net quick. Then I wanted to hug my daughter, she was in the first row, she smiled at me every time I need it – I got that innocent, child energy."
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